Canadian Provinces Forge New Interprovincial Trade Deals to Boost National Economy

April 24, 2025 – Ottawa, ON

In a landmark move toward strengthening the Canadian economy, several provinces have recently signed interprovincial trade agreements aimed at reducing barriers, increasing efficiency, and enhancing collaboration across industries. These deals, involving Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, and Saskatchewan, are expected to streamline trade regulations, improve labor mobility, and bolster regional supply chains.

The agreements come amid ongoing national discussions around Canada’s internal trade framework, which has long faced criticism for being more restrictive than international trade in some respects. The recent deals mark a shift toward more integrated domestic markets.

Western Partnership: Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan

Alberta, B.C., and Saskatchewan have revitalized and expanded the New West Partnership Trade Agreement (NWPTA), originally signed in 2010. The new version modernizes previous frameworks, harmonizing transportation and logistics regulations, and introducing joint infrastructure investment incentives for companies operating across provincial lines.

“This renewed partnership reflects our shared commitment to economic growth in Western Canada,” said Alberta Premier Danielle Smith. “By working together, we reduce red tape and empower businesses to operate more freely and competitively.”

Ontario Steps In: Cross-Canada Logistics and Labor Mobility

Ontario has struck bilateral deals with both Alberta and B.C., focusing on labor mobility in skilled trades and joint initiatives in green energy and tech. The deals will allow certified professionals such as electricians, engineers, and healthcare workers to move more easily between the provinces without redundant licensing requirements.

“This is a big win for workers and businesses alike,” Ontario Premier Doug Ford stated. “It breaks down barriers and lets us build a stronger economy by making it easier for talent and goods to move where they’re needed.”

Benefits for Canada’s Future

Experts say these interprovincial trade deals will have long-term benefits for Canada, including:

• Increased Economic Efficiency: Businesses will spend less on compliance and logistics, allowing them to reinvest in growth and innovation.

• Stronger Supply Chains: A more integrated domestic market strengthens supply chain resilience, reducing reliance on foreign imports for key goods.

• Boosted GDP: A 2020 report from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) estimated that reducing interprovincial trade barriers could increase Canada’s GDP by up to 4%. These new agreements bring the country closer to realizing that potential.

• Enhanced Innovation and Collaboration: With fewer regulatory hurdles, companies across provinces can collaborate more easily on R&D and major projects.

As the federal government continues to encourage greater interprovincial cooperation through its Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA), these regional deals may serve as templates for broader national reform.

“Canada works best when its provinces work together,” said federal Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Dominic LeBlanc. “These agreements are a major step forward in unlocking our full economic potential.”

With other provinces like Manitoba and Quebec reportedly exploring similar bilateral deals, the momentum for reducing internal trade barriers is growing — and may soon redefine the way Canada does business within its own borders.